Pedro Braganza, 'King of Portugal and the Algarves', Maria Francisca Isabel Josefa Antónia Gertrudes Rita Joana Braganza, 'King of Portugal and the Algarves' I (born Braganza, 'Queen of Portugal and the Algarves')

Golden Fleece - Knights: Spanish Branch

José Francisco Xavier de Paula Domingos António Agostinho Anastácio of Bragança (1761-1788) was born at the Real Barraca (read King João VI thread) what later became Ajuda Palace. When José was born his mother was the Princess of Brazil, because his grandfather, King José I, was the reigning monarch.

The Princess of Brazil ascended to the throne as Queen in the same year that José's married his own maternal aunt, Maria Francisca Benedita of Bragança. Maria Francisca was fifteen years older than her 15 years old nephew and their marriage produced no children.

Unlike his younger brother João, José received a full education. Thanks to the generosity of the Marquis of Pombal (who Queen Maria I didn't like...) José was expertly tutored by the friar Manuel do Cenáculo and became a very cultured young man. He was even considered a true role model of the Enlightenment Era.

José was awarded the title of Prince of Brazil, a similar position to that held by his mother who was the Princess of Brazil prior to ascending to the throne as Portugal's Queen.

Unfortunately, at the young age of 27, the Prince of Brazil died of smallpox. Many believe that it was the shock and pain of her son's death that led to the mental disorder Queen Maria I developed after the prince died.